How to Reduce Laser Cutting Costs – Part II
As discussed in the first part of the blog on reducing laser cutting costs, laser cutting production fits particular specifications and accurately delivers a piece’s details the first time. Many companies, small businesses, and industrial organizations tend to choose laser cutting because it produces barely perceptible edge effects from the cutting, unlike many other methods. Versatility in size and metal material is another benefit of laser cutting machinery, although these do have differences in price. In this blog, other means of diminishing expenses while using this incredible technology will be covered along with relevant considerations in this regard.
Creating Prototypes
Constructing a prototype of the fabrication design digitally, on paper or with a sturdier disposable material helps to develop a clear vision of the final product. The appearance of the design will be easier to tweak or simplify once there is a mock-up involved. Ordering the full quantity of a laser cut product without refining the desired outcome is ineffective and drains the company bank account when another order is to be placed. It is good practice to print the design from a computer onto paper with the correct measurements and spacing between the two-dimensional shapes to examine the problematic points that might cost more money in production. Digital models can also be useful since the capabilities of design software can be used to alter small-scale issues. Performing this preliminary test by heavy steel fabrication companies increases confidence in the result and reduces any costs working out kinks that are caught early.
Placing a Small Order
Once the simplified design and idea for the material have been confirmed, a small trial run of the exact supplies and design can reduce extra expenses before placing a substantial order. If certain aspects of the design are still unclear or testing of multiple metals is required, small orders will present the possibilities of several kinds of metal and the accurate implementation of your design. Any complications that arise in a small trial order will cost less than purchasing several big sheets of metal and then realizing that the specifications should have been different. Once it is evident that this metal is the fit for your intentions, the complete order can follow the small order.
Outsourcing Laser Cutting
When a project requires a precise cut that only laser cutting can accomplish, a do-it-yourself direction may be the first impulse. However, on-site laser cutting involves expensive investments in mining plant and equipment, thorough training, and inconvenient maintenance. Rather than mastering laser cutting and facing these obstacles, it is more cost-effective to outsource to experienced companies. Since laser cutting is an important fabrication technique, the equipment is substantial in size and cost. Purchasing laser cutting machinery, depending on the size and nature of your company, will likely not be reused enough to cover the costs. Necessary on-site space is infringed on, and employee training also halts the production process.
Using a specialized outside team to perform the work saves space, time, and money. The machinery also demands regular upkeep, which raises costs even higher. Safety for the work space and the condition of the products require this maintenance, but the drawbacks of further expense, repairs and effort point to another solution — outsourcing. Enlisting the help of workers skilled in this area will expedite the project and reduce overheads. They are familiar with the best practices in laser cutting, already knowledgeable about this task and able to maintain the equipment elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Cutting down on production time and increasing intentionality in design files will reduce the cost of custom-cut pieces. Adjusting the orientation of the design if multiple pieces are manufactured will also diminish wasted metal and extra time. Overall, these techniques have the potential to ensure that the project should be finished sooner than ever before at a lower price. Hence, cutting is the way to go – for both laser and costs!